Remember when Botox was taboo and relatively uncommon? News of a celebrity treated with Botox was worthy of a front-page headline with a mostly negative stigma attached. With increasing awareness and injectable procedures becoming more and more common, this is no longer the case. Many patients are less secretive of their wrinkle-diminishing treatments and more than happy to share their experiences and knowledge. Today, we’re keeping those conversations going and talking about everything Botox.
If you’re thinking about treatment with Botox but have a few questions, here are some answers to our most frequently asked questions:
What is Botox?
Just as “Kleenex” is a well-known brand name for facial tissue, Botox is a common brand name for Botulinum toxin, a neurotoxic protein that is used as an injectable therapeutic to treat rhytides and wrinkles.
How do neuromodulators like Botox work?
They utilize a natural, purified protein to reduce lines and wrinkles by temporarily weakening the muscles that cause them. They block nerve signals to the muscle fibres, causing them to contract less forcefully, and ultimately eliminating the lines these muscles produce.
What can Botox treat?
Crow’s feet, smile lines, gummy smile, pebble chin, bunny lines, downward pull on corners of mouth, vertical bands on neck, lines around eyes, forehead creases and more!
When will I see results?
Typically, patients see results shortly after treatment, with full results within 14 days.
How long will it last?
For most patients, the treatment will be effective with benefits lasting about 3 months. At this point you can come back in to see me and assess if you require additional treatment.
Will my face look frozen?
Most of my new patients ask this question! By treating patients with a moderate approach, rather than overdoing injectable doses, patients are able to have a diminished appearance of fine lines, creases and wrinkles while simultaneously maintaining movement and facial expression.
Ryan Lachance, B.Sc.N.
